Governor Quinn Proclaims AmeriCorps Week in Illinois

"AmeriCorps volunteers dedicate themselves to service and making a difference throughout the great state of Illinois," Governor Quinn said. "On behalf of the people of Illinois, I thank AmeriCorps members and its alumni for their service and salute them for their hard work and continued commitment to strengthening our neighborhoods and communities."

AmeriCorps provides opportunities for adults of all ages and backgrounds to serve through a network of partnerships with local and national nonprofit groups. From neighborhood cleanups and building homes to tutoring children and signing up new volunteers, Illinois' 3,600 AmeriCorps members are celebrating by doing what they do best - direct service. Since 1994, more than 30,000 Illinoisans have taken the AmeriCorps pledge to "get things done for America." Those members have given back more than 37 million hours to their communities, which equates to nearly $843 million in impact. AmeriCorps members are eligible for a modest education award to pay a portion of their student loans or college courses they plan to take. Over the past 18 years, Illinoisans have earned more than $93.8 million in education awards.

The following are a few projects happening around the state during AmeriCorps Week:

Chicago; March 17 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. - AmeriCorps members will join City Year Chicago in beautifying the Chicago Vocational Career Academy.

East St. Louis; March 11-15, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. - AmeriCorps East St. Louis members will be renovating a donated home that will become "Project Hope." The facility will provide a safe and caring environment that serves the homeless population.

Herrin, March 12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. - Lutheran Social Services of Illinois AmeriCorps members will partner with Hurricane Baptist Church to improve the garden area.

Springfield; March 11-15 - The Springfield Urban League will host several open houses to showcase the work of AmeriCorps members who work in after school programs around the city.

AmeriCorps is administered by the Serve Illinois Commission, which is operated through the Department of Human Services. The mission of the 40 member, bipartisan commission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing volunteerism and instilling an ethic of service throughout the state.

For a full listing of AmeriCorps Week activities or information on how to find a volunteer opportunity any time of the year, please visit www.Serve.Illinois.gov.